Viera Charter School Recognized for Support of Military Families
December 19, 2024 – Viera Charter School has been named a “Purple Star School of Distinction”. This distinction underscores Viera Charter School’s commitment to supporting military families. To earn the Florida Purple Star School of Distinction designation, schools are required to maintain the following:
- A military point-of-contact to serve as a liaison for military families;
- A school webpage for military students and families that includes specifically-focused resources like academic planning, transition planning, and educational opportunities;
- A student-led transition program to assist military students coming into the school;
- Professional development training for staff to identify and respond to the needs of military families;
- 5% open-enrollment seats for military students and families; and
- Three elective opportunities to further support military families, such as participating in a service project to connect the school with the military community, hosting an annual military recognition event, or offering a JROTC program, among others.
“This designation is not easily achieved,” according to Brian Stradler, Executive Vice-President, Charter School Associates, “and Dr. Julie A. Cady, principal of Viera Charter School and school staff deserve recognition for pushing forward and persevering in this achievement.”
This is the first-year school districts have been eligible to achieve this distinction, and Brevard is one of only five districts, out of the state total of 67 to receive the recognition.
A total of 85 Brevard Public Schools earned the Purple Star School of Distinction honor this year, joining six existing BPS schools that had already achieved the distinction. This brings the total to 91 Purple Star Schools with BPS now holding the highest number of recognized schools in a single district across Florida. The designation recognizes schools and districts that provide tailored resources to help military families navigate the challenges of school transitions while ensuring academic, social, and emotional support.
“We are incredibly proud to be named a Purple Star District and to see our Purple Star Schools grow to 91,” said Superintendent Dr. Mark Rendell. “This recognition reflects our unwavering dedication to the military families in our community. We are committed to ensuring every military-connected student has the support they need to succeed and thrive.”
Source: Brevard Public Schools